Sterile Medical Instrument Charging Device

ABSTRACT

A system includes a medical device and a charging device. A sterile barrier may be interposed between the medical device and the charging device. The medical device includes an integral power source and an active element. The charging device is configured to charge the integral power source. The charging device may charge the integral power source through direct contact between features of the charging device and features the medical device. The charging device may alternatively charge the integral power source wirelessly, such as through inductive coupling. The medical device may include conductive prongs that are retained by the charging device. The charging device may physically couple with the medical device via magnets. The medical device and the charging device may be provided together in a sterile package as a kit. The kit may also include a reclamation bag to facilitate reclamation of electrical components.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/410,603, filed Nov. 5, 2010, entitled “Energy-Based SurgicalInstruments,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein.

This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/487,846, filed May 19, 2011, entitled “Energy-Based SurgicalInstruments,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein.

BACKGROUND

With the advancement of the electronics industry, many medical devicesthat rely on some form of electric power may be adapted to contain most,if not all, of the required components within the medical device. Morespecifically, some medical devices may be adapted to use an internal orattachable power source instead of requiring the device to be pluggedinto an external power source by a cable. Merely exemplary devices thatmay be adapted to include a portable power source are disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 6,500,176 entitled “Electrosurgical Systems and Techniques forSealing Tissue,” issued Dec. 31, 2002, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein; U.S. Pat. No. 7,416,101 entitled“Motor-Driven Surgical Cutting and Fastening Instrument with LoadingForce Feedback,” issued Aug. 26, 2008, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein; U.S. Pat. No. 7,738,971 entitled“Post-Sterilization Programming of Surgical Instruments,” issued Jun.15, 2010, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein;U.S. Pub. No. 2006/0079874 entitled “Tissue Pad for Use with anUltrasonic Surgical Instrument,” published Apr. 13, 2006, the disclosureof which is incorporated by reference herein; U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0191713entitled “Ultrasonic Device for Cutting and Coagulating,” published Aug.16, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein;U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0282333 entitled “Ultrasonic Waveguide and Blade,”published Dec. 6, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein; U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0200940 entitled “Ultrasonic Devicefor Cutting and Coagulating,” published Aug. 21, 2008, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein; U.S. Pub. No. 2009/0209990entitled “Motorized Surgical Cutting and Fastening Instrument HavingHandle Based Power Source,” published Aug. 20, 2009, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein; and U.S. Pub. No.2010/0069940 entitled “Ultrasonic Device for Fingertip Control,”published Mar. 18, 2010, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. Similarly, various ways in which medical devices maybe adapted to include a portable power source are disclosed in U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/410,603, filed Nov. 5, 2010,entitled “Energy-Based Surgical Instruments,” the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein.

Electrically powered medical devices such as those referred to hereinmay require an internal or otherwise integral power source (e.g., abattery or battery pack, etc.) to be charged or recharged immediatelybefore use, during use, or otherwise. In some settings (e.g., thosewhere a charging device is re-used several times, etc.), it may bedesirable to provide some degree of isolation between a charging deviceand the medical device to thereby reduce the likelihood that thecharging device will contaminate the medical device and/or to reduce thelikelihood that the medical device will contaminate the charging device.Similarly, it may be desirable to facilitate charging or recharging ofthe power source within relatively close proximity to the location atwhich the medical device will be used in a medical procedure (e.g.,within an operating room, etc.). While several systems and methods havebeen made and used to charge or recharge power sources, it is believedthat no one prior to the inventors has made or used the inventiondescribed in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly pointout and distinctly claim this technology, it is believed this technologywill be better understood from the following description of certainexamples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in whichlike reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic view of an exemplary medical device having aninternal power source;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary medical device havingan internal power source;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary medical device systemincluding a cable and battery combination;

FIG. 4 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of a cable connector ofthe system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary medical device with components in apackaging system;

FIG. 6 depicts the system of FIG. 5 with battery components beingcharged in the packaging;

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of the medical device of FIG. 5 with abattery and control module positioned for insertion in the medicaldevice;

FIG. 8 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of the medical device ofFIG. 5 ejecting the control module;

FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of a reclamation bag of the system ofFIG. 5 holding electronic components of the system of FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 depicts an exploded view of exemplary medical device rechargingassembly;

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of a medical device positioned overthe recharging assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of the medical device ofFIG. 11 coupled with the recharging assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13A depicts a partial cross-sectional view of another exemplarymedical device recharging assembly, with a medical device positionedover the recharging assembly;

FIG. 13B depicts a partial cross-sectional view of the rechargingassembly of FIG. 13A, with the medical device being coupled with therecharging assembly;

FIG. 13C depicts a partial cross-sectional view of the rechargingassembly of FIG. 13A, with the medical device removed and leaving behindrecharging prongs;

FIG. 14 depicts a schematic diagram of an exemplary wireless rechargingsystem with wireless data communication;

FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary version of a chargingstation provided in accordance with the system of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary version of acharging station provided in accordance with the system of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 depicts a schematic view of an exemplary inductive charging padsystem;

FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary inductive chargingpeg system;

FIG. 19 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of the charging pegsystem of FIG. 18, including a coupled medical device; and

FIG. 20 depicts an exemplary medical device powered by supercapacitors,with a charging pad draped over a patient.

The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it iscontemplated that various embodiments of the technology may be carriedout in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depictedin the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming apart of the specification illustrate several aspects of the presenttechnology, and together with the description serve to explain theprinciples of the technology; it being understood, however, that thistechnology is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples of the technology shouldnot be used to limit its scope. Other examples, features, aspects,embodiments, and advantages of the technology will become apparent tothose skilled in the art from the following description, which is by wayof illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out thetechnology. As will be realized, the technology described herein iscapable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departingfrom the technology. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions shouldbe regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

I. Medical Devices for Use With Insertable or Reclaimable Components

FIG. 1 shows components of an exemplary medical device (10) indiagrammatic block form. As shown, medical device (10) comprises acontrol module (12), a power source (14), and an end effector (16).Merely exemplary power sources (14) may include NiMH batteries, Li-ionbatteries (e.g., prismatic cell type lithium ion batteries, etc.),Ni-Cad batteries, or any other type of power source as may be apparentto one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings herein.Control module (12) may comprise a microprocessor, an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC), memory, a printed circuit board(PCB), a storage device (such as a solid state drive or hard disk),firmware, software, or any other suitable control module components aswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of theteachings herein. Control module (12) and power source (14) are coupledby an electrical connection (22), such as a cable and/or traces in acircuit board, etc., to transfer power from power source (14) to controlmodule (12). Alternatively, power source (14) may be selectively coupledto control module (12). This allows power source (14) to be detached andremoved from medical device (10), which may further allow power source(14) to be readily recharged or reclaimed for resterilization and reuse,such as in accordance with the various teachings herein. In addition orin the alternative, control module (12) may be removed for servicing,testing, replacement, or any other purpose as will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

End effector (16) is coupled to control module (12) by anotherelectrical connection (22). End effector (16) is configured to perform adesired function of medical device (10). By way of example only, suchfunction may include cauterizing tissue, ablating tissue, severingtissue, ultrasonically vibrating, stapling tissue, or any other desiredtask for medical device (10). End effector (16) may thus include anactive feature such as an ultrasonic blade, a pair of clamping jaws, asharp knife, a staple driving assembly, a monopolar RF electrode, a pairof bipolar RF electrodes, a thermal heating element, and/or variousother components. End effector (16) may also be removable from medicaldevice (10) for servicing, testing, replacement, or any other purpose aswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. In some versions, end effector (16) is modular suchthat medical device (10) may be used with different kinds of endeffectors (e.g., as taught in U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/410,603, etc.). Various other configurations of end effector (16) maybe provided for a variety of different functions depending upon thepurpose of medical device (10) as will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Similarly, other typesof components of a medical device (10) that may receive power from powersource (14) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein.

Medical device (10) of the present example includes a trigger (18) and asensor (20), though it should be understood that such components aremerely optional. Trigger (18) is coupled to control module (12) andpower source (14) by electrical connection (22). Trigger (18) may beconfigured to selectively provide power from power source (14) to endeffector (16) (and/or to some other component of medical device (10)) toactivate medical device (10) when performing a procedure. Sensor (20) isalso coupled to control module (12) by an electrical connection (22) andmay be configured to provide a variety of information to control module(12) during a procedure. By way of example only, such configurations mayinclude sensing a temperature at end effector (16) or determining theoscillation rate of end effector (16). Data from sensor (20) may beprocessed by control module (12) to effect the delivery of power to endeffector (16) (e.g., in a feedback loop, etc.). Various otherconfigurations of sensor (20) may be provided depending upon the purposeof medical device (10) as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein. Of course, as with othercomponents described herein, medical device (10) may have more than onesensor (20), or sensor (20) may simply be omitted if desired.

FIG. 2 depicts a merely exemplary form that medical device (10) maytake. In particular, FIG. 2 shows a medical device (100) comprising apower source (110), a control module (120), a housing (130), endeffector (140), and an electrical connection (150). In the presentexample, power source (110) is located internally within housing (130)of medical device (100). Alternatively, power source (110) may onlypartially extend into housing (130) and may be selectively attachable toa portion of housing (130). In yet a further exemplary configuration, aportion of housing (130) may extend into power source (110) and powersource (110) may be selectively attachable to the portion of housing(130). Power source (110) may also be configured to detach from medicaldevice (100) and decouple from control module (120) or electricalconnection (150). As a result, power source (110) may be completelyseparated from medical device (100) in some versions. As is readilyapparent, this may allow the power source (110) to be removed to berecharged or reclaimed for resterilization and reuse, such as inaccordance with various teachings herein. After recharging, or after aninitial charge, power source (110) may be inserted or reinserted intomedical device (100) and secured to housing (130) or internally withinhousing (130). Of course, medical device (100) may also allow powersource (110) to be charged and/or recharged while power source (110) isstill in or otherwise coupled relative to housing (130).

It should also be understood that control module (120) may be removedfor servicing, testing, replacement, or any other purpose as will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. Further, end effector (140) may also be removable from medicaldevice (100) for servicing, testing, replacement, or any other purposeas will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. While certain configurations of an exemplary medicaldevice (100) have been described, various other ways in which medicaldevice (100) may be configured will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. By way of exampleonly, medical devices (10, 100) and/or any other medical device referredto herein may be constructed in accordance with at least some of theteachings of U.S. Pat. No. 6,500,176; U.S. Pat. No. 7,416,101; U.S. Pat.No. 7,738,971; U.S. Pub. No. 2006/0079874; U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0191713;U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0282333; U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0200940; U.S. Pub. No.2009/0209990; U.S. Pub. No. 2010/0069940; and/or U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 61/410,603.

It is further understood that any one or more of the teachings,expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may becombined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions,embodiments, examples, etc. that are described herein. Thefollowing-described teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc.should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other.Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined willbe readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to beincluded within the scope of the claims.

It should also be understood that various teachings herein may bereadily combined with various teachings in any of the following patentapplications, all of which are filed on even date herewith and thedisclosures of all of which are incorporated by reference herein: U.S.patent application Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END6895USNP.0581496],entitled “Medical Device Packaging with Charging Interface”; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END6895USNP1.0581500],entitled “Motor Driven Electrosurgical Device with Mechanical andElectrical Feedback”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. [Attorney DocketNo. END6895USNP2.0581505], entitled “Packaging for Reclaimable Componentof a Medical Device”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. [Attorney DocketNo. END6895USNP3.0581538], entitled “Sterile Housing for Non-SterileMedical Device Component”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. [AttorneyDocket No. END6895USNP5.0581543], entitled “Medical Device Packagingwith Window for Insertion of Reusable Component”; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END6895USNP6.0581545],entitled “Medical Device with Feature for Sterile Acceptance ofNon-Sterile Reusable Component”; and U.S. patent application Ser. No.[Attorney Docket No. END6902USNP.0581498], entitled “Sterile PackageSystem for Medical Device.” Various suitable ways in which teachingsherein may be combined with teachings of the above-referenced patentapplications, as well as various ways in which teachings of theabove-referenced patent applications may be combined together with orwithout teachings herein, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art.

II. Exemplary Medical Device System Including Combined Integral PowerSource and External Power Source

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary medical device (200) that includes an integralpower source (218) and that also relies on external power. Medicaldevice (200) of this example includes a handpiece (210), an end effector(212) disposed at the distal end of a shaft (214), and a trigger (216).Integral power source (218) is included within the handpiece (210) andselectively activates end effector (212) in accordance with actuationsof trigger (216). By way of example only, end effector (212) maycomprise a harmonic blade, a pair of clamping jaws, and/or one or moreelectrosurgical elements. It should be understood that medical device(200) may be constructed and operable in accordance with medical device(10, 100) and/or in accordance with at least some of the teachings ofany of the references cited herein. Various other kinds of devices towhich the teachings of medical device (200) may be applied will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

In the present example, integral power source (218) includes a singlebattery. In particular, integral power source (218) in this exampleprovides enough power in a single charge to activate end effector (212)one or more times during a normal use of medical device (200) in amedical procedure. However, integral power source (218) in this exampledoes not necessarily provide enough power to activate end effector (212)as many times as needed during a normal use of medical device (200) in amedical procedure without providing at least some degree of rechargingof integral power source (218). To that end, a relatively thin chargingwire (230) is coupled with handpiece (210) at coupling (220). Chargingwire (230) is also coupled with an adapter (232), which is furthercoupled with a conventional power cable (234). Power cable (234) isplugged into a conventional wall outlet (236), though it should beunderstood that charging wire (230), adapter (232), and/or power cable(234) may alternatively be coupled with a piece of capital equipmentand/or some other component.

Charging wire (230) is operable to deliver enough power to integralpower source (218) to sufficiently charge integral power source (218)during a normal use of medical device (200) in a medical procedure.However, in the present example, charging wire (230) does not havesufficient thickness to provide all power needed to activate endeffector (212) during normal use of medical device (200) in a medicalprocedure. Thus, charging wire (230) and integral power source (218)work in tandem—with integral power source (218) being the primary powersource for end effector (212) and with charging wire (230) being used torecharge integral power source (218) (e.g., between selectiveactivations of end effector (212), etc.).

Charging wire (230) of the present example is also substantially thinnerthan conventional power cable (234). It should be understood that thismay provide greater mobility for medical device (200) due to reducedweight pulling on handpiece (210), particularly if adapter (232) andcable (234) rest on the floor. As is also shown in FIG. 3, power cable(234) and adapter (232) are located in a non-sterile field (240) whilecharging wire (230) and the rest of medical device (200) are located ina sterile field (250) in the present example. It should be understoodthat this may facilitate re-use of power cable (234) and adapter (232)in various medical procedures with various medical devices (200),without having to re-sterilize power cable (234) and adapter (232) foreach re-use. Of course, it may still be desirable to sterilize chargingwire (230) and the rest of medical device (200) before medical device(200) is used in a medical procedure, regardless of whether chargingwire (230) and/or other parts of medical device (200) are re-used insubsequent medical procedures. In instances where charging wire (230)and medical device (200) are provided in a sterile kit before use,integral power source (218) may be provided with a partial charge in thekit.

In some versions, using a single battery for integral power source (218)may help reduce the overall cost and weight of medical device (200). Inother words, using a larger integral power source (218) that is capableof activating end effector (212) enough times during normal use ofmedical device (200) without such a power source (218) having to berecharged might result in a more expensive and/or heavier medical device(200). Of course, integral power source (218) may comprise more than onebattery or may even comprise some kind of power source other than abattery. Furthermore, integral power source (218) may be configured tohold enough charge sufficient to activate end effector (212) enoughtimes during normal use of medical device (200) without such a powersource (218) having to be recharged.

FIG. 4 shows coupling (220) of the present example in greater detail. Asshown, coupling (220) a first magnet (222) integral with handpiece (210)and a second magnet (224) integral with a strain relief (226) on wire(230). In the present example, magnets (222, 224) provide relativelyquick and easy coupling/decoupling of wire (230) and handpiece (210). Insome versions, handpiece (210) and wire (230) also present complementarycontacts, prongs and sockets, and/or other features to provideelectrical communication from wire (230) to integral power source (218).Magnets (222, 224) may be located adjacent to such electricalcommunication features. Handpiece (210) and/or wire (230) may alsoinclude one or more bosses or other guide features configured tofacilitate proper coupling of wire (230) with handpiece (210). It shouldalso be understood that magnets (222, 224) are merely optional, and thata variety of other types of features may be used, including but notlimited to latches, clamps, clips, friction fittings, etc.

In some instances, a surgeon may wish to decouple wire (230) fromhandpiece (210) to provide greater mobility or positioning of medicaldevice (200). In such instances, wire (230) may be readily re-coupledwith handpiece (210) at coupling (220), even in the operating room, toprovide any additional charge that may be needed for integral powersource (218) after one or more activations of end effector (212).Furthermore, handpiece (210) or some other component of medical device(200) may include a charge indicator, providing a visual and/or audioindication of the charge state of power source (218), thereby alertingthe surgeon to when power source (218) needs to be recharged. Stillother suitable components, features, configurations, and operabilitiesof medical device (200) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

III. Exemplary Medical Device Kit Including Electronic ComponentCharging and Reclamation Features

FIGS. 5-9 show an exemplary kit (300) and its various components,including a medical device (310), batteries (320), a control module(330) (e.g., printed circuit board, generator board, etc.), and areclamation bag (340), all of which are positioned in respectivecompartments of packaging (350). Packaging (350) of the present examplecomprises a sterile blister pack, though it should be understood thatpackaging (350) may take any other suitable form. In some versions,packaging (350) is constructed in accordance with the teachings of U.S.patent application Ser. No. [ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. END6902USNP.0581498],entitled “Sterile Package System for Medical Device,” filed [FILINGDATE], the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Forinstance, such a form of packaging (350) may facilitate sterilizationand sealing of medical device (310) separate from sterilization andsealing of batteries (320) and control module (330). Various othersuitable ways in which packaging (350) may be configured will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

Medical device (310) of the present example includes a handpiece (312),an end effector (314) disposed at the distal end of a shaft (316), and atrigger (318). As shown in FIG. 7, handpiece (312) includes a first slot(360) configured to receive battery (320) and a second slot (370)configured to receive control module (330). Such slots (360, 370) mayinclude latching features configured to selectively retain battery (320)and control module (330) in handpiece (312) after insertion. Slots (360,370) may also include leads sufficient to establish electricalcommunication with inserted battery (320) and control module (330). Byway of example only, either slot (360, 370) may be configured inaccordance with the teachings of U.S. patent application Ser. No.[ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. END6895USNP6.0581545], entitled “Medical Devicewith Feature for Sterile Acceptance of Non-Sterile Reusable Component,”filed [FILING DATE], the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. Other suitable configurations for slots (360, 370)will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. In some versions, a charged battery (320) is preloadedin handpiece (312), such that medical device (310) is immediately readyfor use upon removal from packaging (350). In some such instances,remaining batteries (320) in packaging (350) are simply relied on forbackup in the event that the preloaded battery (320) loses sufficientcharge.

Once coupled with handpiece (312), battery (320) and control module(330) cooperate to selectively activate end effector (314) in accordancewith actuations of trigger (318). As also shown in FIG. 7, handpiece(312) of the present example also includes a battery life indicator(362), which is operable to indicate how much charge is left in battery(320). As with other components described herein, battery life indicator(362) is merely optional. If the charge level of a battery (320) getstoo low during a medical procedure, the user may simply eject battery(320) as described below and use another, fully charged battery (320)from packaging (350). In some instances, having several batteries (320)on hand in packaging (350) may facilitate use of relatively smallbatteries (320), which may in turn reduce the overall weight of medicaldevice (310) during use of medical device (310) in a medical procedure.Extra batteries (320) may continue to be charged in packaging (350)during the medical procedure.

By way of example only, end effector (314) may comprise a harmonicblade, a pair of clamping jaws, and/or one or more electrosurgicalelements. It should be understood that medical device (310) may beconstructed and operable in accordance with medical device (10, 100)and/or in accordance with at least some of the teachings of any of thereferences cited herein. Various other kinds of devices to which theteachings of medical device (310) may be applied will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

As best seen in FIG. 6, kit (300) also includes a power cord (322)coupled with batteries (320). In the present example, power cord (322)is coupled with batteries (320) via a charger (324) that is integralwith packaging (350) (e.g., disposed within a recess formed by packaging(350), etc.). When plugged into a conventional wall outlet (326) (orsome other power source), power cord (322) is operable to chargebatteries (320). In some versions, kit (300) is shipped and stored withbatteries (320) having only a partial charge, such that batteries (320)need to be charged before medical device (310) is used in a medicalprocedure. In other words, in an exemplary use, a user may initiallyreceive kit (300) in the form shown in FIG. 5, which may include apeelable film cover, lid, or other removable feature. Right beforemedical device (310) is to be used in a medical procedure, the user mayplace kit (300) on a mayo stand in the operating room (or place kit(300) elsewhere), remove the film cover, lid, or other removablefeature, and then plug power cord (322) into wall outlet (326) as shownin FIG. 6. Charger (324), packaging (350), and/or batteries (320) mayinclude visual and/or audio indicators configured to convey the chargestate of batteries (320) to the user. Once batteries (320) aresufficiently charged, the user may then insert battery (320) and controlmodule (330) into respective slots (360, 370) of handpiece (312), asshown in FIG. 7. Medical device (310) is then ready to be used in amedical procedure.

Handpiece (312) of the present example also includes a componentejection feature (380), which includes a button and a spring-loadedrelease mechanism. As shown in FIG. 8, component ejection feature (380)is operable to eject control module (330) and battery (320) fromhandpiece (312). In some versions, a single component ejection feature(380) simultaneously ejects both battery (320) and control module (330).In some other versions, separate component ejection features (380) areprovided for independent ejection of battery (320) and control module(330). It should be understood that it may be desirable in someinstances to eject battery (320) and/or control module (330) frommedical device (310), such as after the medical procedure is complete.For instance, it may be desirable in some instances to dispose ofbattery (320) and/or control module (330) separate from disposal ofother components of medical device (310), such as to avoid environmentalconcerns.

As another merely illustrative example, it may be desirable in someinstances to separately collect batteries (320) and/or control module(330) for reclamation (e.g., cleaning and re-sterilization, etc.) andre-use. For instance, this may be desirable where battery (320) and/orcontrol module (330) are relatively high cost items; and/or to againavoid environmental concerns that might be associated with simpledisposal of battery (320) and/or control module (330). As shown in FIG.9, reclamation bag (340) may be used to collect used batteries (320),control module (330), and/or other components (e.g., charger (324),etc.). Filled reclamation bag (340) may then be sent off to reclaim,salvage, or otherwise further process the components contained therein,with the remainder of kit (300) being discarded or otherwise disposed ofIn the present example, reclamation bag (340) includes a drawstring(342), though it should be understood that any other suitable type ofclosure feature may be used.

In some versions, control module (330) is not removable from medicaldevice (310), such that only battery (320) is removable from medicaldevice (310). Similarly, in some versions control module (330) isremovable from medical device (310) and either battery (320) isnon-removable or medical device (310) receives power from some othersource. It should also be understood that charger (324) or some otherfeature of kit (300) may be configured to safely discharge batteries(320) before batteries (320) are disposed of or sent off forreclamation/processing in reclamation bag (340). Still other suitablecomponents, features, configurations, and operabilities of kit (300)will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

IV. Exemplary Medical Device Conductive Charging Stations

As noted above, in medical devices having internal power sources such asbatteries, etc., it may be necessary to charge or recharge such internalpower sources before and/or during use of the medical device in amedical procedure. In some instances, this may require physicallycoupling (e.g., via contact) a component of the medical device with acomponent of a docking station or other type of charging device. In somesettings, such physical contact may present concerns as to sterility. Inparticular, such as situations where the docking station or othercharging device is re-used, it may be desirable in some instances toprovide ready re-use of such a docking station or other charging devicewithout necessarily having to fully re-sterilize the docking station orother charging device between uses. Thus, in some situations where thedocking station or other charging device is not sterile, it may bedesirable to prevent such non-sterility from contaminating a sterilemedical device when some degree of contact is required between thedocking station or other charging device and the medical device in orderto charge/recharge the medical device. The following examples presentways in which a non-sterile charging device may be used to charge asterile medical device without compromising the sterility of the medicaldevice despite some degree of contact with the medical device. Furtherexamples and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

A. Exemplary Charging Station with Sterile Barrier

FIGS. 10-12 show an exemplary charging station (400) that includes abase (410), a film (420), and a collar (430). Charging station (400) isshown as coupling with a handpiece (450) of a medical device. As shownin FIG. 12, handpiece (450) includes an integral power source (460) anda pair of contacts (462) that are coupled with power source (460) viawires (464). Power source (460) may comprise one or more batteriesand/or various other components. Contacts (462) are recessed withinhandpiece (450) in this example. In some versions, contacts (462) defineor are provided in respective sockets. It should be understood that themedical device having handpiece (450) may be constructed and operable inaccordance with medical device (10, 100) and/or in accordance with atleast some of the teachings of any of the references cited herein.Various other types of devices that may include handpiece (450) will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

Base (410) includes a power cord (412) that is configured to plug into aconventional wall outlet or a piece of capital equipment. A pair ofspike contacts (414) protrude upwardly from base (410). While spikecontacts (414) have a sharp conical shape in the present example, itshould be understood that contacts (414) may have any other suitableshape. Contacts (462) of handpiece (450) are configured to receive spikecontacts (414) when handpiece is coupled with charging station (400),such that spike contacts (414) are operable to charge power source(460). Collar (430) is configured to insertingly receive a lower portionof handpiece (450) and is configured to provide structural support tohandpiece (450). In particular, collar (430) has angled sidewalls (432)providing a tapered configuration, which helps prevent handpiece (450)and collar (430) from tipping over. While contacts (414) are shownprotruding upwardly from base (410), it should be understood that thecontacts (414) could alternatively reside and point downwardly fromwithin handpiece (450) and make contact with contacts of base (410).

Film (420) comprises a sterile sheet of plastic film, and is configuredto provide a sterile barrier between the exterior of sterile handpiece(450) and non-sterile base (410). In particular, film (420) isinterposed between handpiece (450) and base (410). In the presentexample, collar (430) is also sterile, and is also positioned above film(420). It should be understood, however, that film (420) may optionallybe draped over collar (430), and that film (420) may deform whenhandpiece (450) is inserted in collar (430), such that film (420) mayserve as a sterile barrier between the sterile exterior of handpiece(450) and a non-sterile collar (430). As best seen in FIG. 10, film(420) of the present example includes a pair of openings (422)associated with spike contacts (414). In particular, openings (422) aresized and configured to permit passage of spike contacts (414)therethrough. In some other versions, openings (422) are eliminated, andspike contacts (414) pierce and poke through film (420) when handpiece(450) is pressed onto base (410) through collar (430).

In some versions, spike contacts (414) are selectively retractablewithin base (410). For instance, spike contacts (414) may be retractedin base (410) as charging station (400) is being prepared for use, asshown in FIG. 10. Base (410) may include an actuating mechanism (notshown) that is operable to deploy spike contacts (414) at an appropriatetime. Such a mechanism may employ springs, solenoids, and/or variousother types of components to deploy spike contacts (414). By way ofexample only, base (410) may include a button, switch, slider, or otherfeature operable to selectively activate such an actuation mechanism. Asanother merely illustrative example, base (410) may include a featurethat is responsive to placement of collar (430) and/or handpiece (450)against base (410), such that spike contacts (414) deploy upon placementof collar (430) and/or handpiece (450) against base (410).

In some other versions, spike contacts (414) are integral features ofcollar (430) instead of being integral features of base (410). Forinstance, base (410) may present a pair of contacts that mate withcomplementary contacts on the underside of collar (430), throughopenings (422) in film (420). Such contacts on the underside of collar(430) may be in communication with spike contacts (414). Still othersuitable components, features, configurations, and operabilities ofcharging station (400) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

B. Exemplary Charging Station with Breakaway Prongs

FIGS. 13A-13C show another exemplary charging station (500) thatincludes a base (510) having a recess (512) and movable retention pins(514). Recess (512) is sized and shaped to receive a lower portion of ahandpiece (550) of a medical device. Handpiece (550) of this exampleincludes an integral power source (560) and a pair of protruding prongs(562) that are removably received in sockets (564) of handpiece (550).For instance, sockets (564) may include conductive leaf spring featuresand/or other features that substantially hold prongs (562) in sockets(564) yet release prongs (562) from sockets (564) when prongs (562) arepulled from sockets (564) with sufficient force. Sockets (564) arefurther coupled with power source (560) via wires (566). Power source(560) may comprise one or more batteries and/or various othercomponents. It should be understood that the medical device havinghandpiece (550) may be constructed and operable in accordance withmedical device (10, 100) and/or in accordance with at least some of theteachings of any of the references cited herein. Various other types ofdevices that may include handpiece (550) will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Base (510) of the present example includes a cable (not shown) that isconfigured to plug into a conventional wall outlet or piece of capitalequipment, etc., to deliver a charge to power source (560) as describedin greater detail below. Retention pins (514) are configured to movetoward a central member (516) within recess (512) when prongs (562) aresufficiently positioned within recess (512). By way of example only,base (510) may include a spring-loaded trip mechanism that is responsiveto insertion of prongs (562) in recess, and such a trip mechanism maycause pins (514) to move toward central member (516) as shown in FIG.13B. Such a trip mechanism may include one or more springs or otherresilient members, levers, rockers, cams, etc. As can be seen in FIGS.13B-13C, pins (514) are configured to trap prongs (562), such as bypassing through corresponding openings (not shown) formed in prongs(562). In addition, pins (514) are conductive and are configured todeliver a charge to prongs (562) to thereby charge power source (560).It should therefore be understood that, in some versions, central member(516) is made of a non-conductive material, such that pins (514) willnot short out when they both contact central member (516).

As can also be seen in FIG. 13B, the relative lengths of prongs (562)and recess (512) are selected such that handpiece (550) does not have tocontact base (510) during charging. In particular, a gap (520) ispresented between base (510) and handpiece (550). Thus, in the presentexample, charging station (500) may be non-sterilized and yet still notcontaminate sterile handpiece (550) during charging of power source(560). In some other versions, the interior of recess (512) and at leasta top portion of base (510) are sterilized to further avoid the risk ofinadvertently contaminating sterile handpiece (550). It should also beunderstood that prongs (562) and recess (512) may have any othersuitable relative lengths, such that gap (520) is eliminated and suchthat part of handpiece (550) is also disposed in recess (512) duringcharging of power source (560).

In an exemplary use, a user initially positions handpiece (550) overbase (510) as shown in FIG. 13A. The user then urges handpiece (550)downwardly, such that prongs (562) are disposed in recess, and such thatpins (514) move toward central member (516) to capture and contactprongs (562) as shown in FIG. 13B. Handpiece (550) remains in thisposition during charging of power source (560). The charge level ofpower source (560) may be monitored by a charge indicator on handpiece(550), on base (510), or elsewhere. Once power source (560) issufficiently charged, handpiece (550) is pulled upwardly, leaving prongs(562) in base (510) as shown in FIG. 13C. In some versions, base (510)is weighted or otherwise secured to the surface on which it rests inorder to provide sufficient resistance to friction encountered by prongs(562) in sockets (564), such that base (510) is not lifted away withhandpiece (550) by prongs (562).

In some versions, handpiece (550) includes a door, cap, or other featurethat is operable to close off sockets (564) when prongs (562) are pulledfree from sockets (564), thereby effectively sealing off the bottom ofhandpiece (550). Such a feature may be manually operated after handpiece(550) is pulled away from base (510). Alternatively, a mechanism mayautomatically case such a feature to be released to close off sockets(564) when prongs (562) are pulled free from sockets (564). Varioussuitable ways in which such a feature may be provided will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.Similarly, various other suitable components, features, configurations,and operabilities of charging station (500) and handpiece (550) will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

V. Exemplary Medical Device Inductive Charging Stations

The examples described above with reference to FIGS. 10-13C relate toconductive charging, where charging of a power source is providedthrough direct contact between conductive materials. An alternative formof charging includes the use of inductive coupling. In particular,energy is exchanged from one inductive coil to another inductive coilvia an electromagnetic field, such that the coils together form atransformer, without the coils coming into physical contact with eachother. In the context of medical devices, inductive charging may stillpresent concerns as to sterility, though such concerns may be addresseddifferently in the context of inductive charging than they would beaddressed in the context of conductive charging. As described in greaterdetail below, a non-sterile inductive charging station may be used tocharge a power source in a sterile medical device without compromisingthe sterility of the medical device. While several such examples will bediscussed in greater detail below, other examples and variations will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

A. Exemplary Charging Pad with Wireless Communication of Charge State

FIGS. 14-16 depict examples of inductive charging pads that may be usedto provide inductive charging and wireless communication of chargestate. In particular, FIG. 14 schematically depicts a charging pad (600)and a medical device (650). Charging pad (600) of this example includesa primary inductive coil (602), a control module (604), a chargeindicator (606), and a power cable (608). Power cable (608) isconfigured to plug into a conventional wall outlet or piece of capitalequipment, etc., and thereby provide power to inductive coil (602). Inaddition to regulating the power transmitted via inductive coil (602),control module (604) is configured to superimpose data on the waveformtransmitted by inductive coil (602), and is further configured toprocess data received by inductive coil (602), as will be described ingreater detail below. In other words, control module (604) is configuredto provide bi-directional data communication through inductive coil(602).

Medical device (650) of this example includes an integral power source(660), which includes a secondary inductive coil (662), a control module(664), and at least one battery (666). As with other control modulesreferred to herein, control module (664) may include a variety ofcomponents, including but not limited to a printed circuit board, amicroprocessor, a memory device, etc. Various suitable components,features, and configurations for the various control modules referred toherein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein. Medical device (650) also includes a chargeindicator (656) in this example, though it should be understood that inother versions either or both of charge indicators (606, 656) may beomitted. It should also be understood that medical device (650) may beconstructed and operable in accordance with medical device (10, 100)and/or in accordance with at least some of the teachings of any of thereferences cited herein. For instance, medical device (650) may includean ultrasonic or electrosurgical end effector (not shown) that isselectively activated by power source (660). Various other types offorms that medical device (650) may take will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

With power cable (608) plugged in, and when medical device (650) isbrought within sufficient proximity of charging pad (600), coils (602,662) inductively couple, thereby forming a transformer and allowing thewireless transfer of energy from coil (602) to coil (662), therebycharging battery (666) through induction of a current in coil (662).Control module (664) is operable to monitor the charge level of battery(666) in real time. Control module (664) is further operable to drivecharge indicator (656) to indicate the charge level of battery (666)(e.g., visually and/or audibly) in real time. In addition, controlmodule (664) is operable to communicate the charge level of battery(666) back to control module (664) via coils (662, 602). For instance,control module (664) may superimpose a data carrier on the chargingwaveform through modulation, allowing such data to be communicated formcoil (662) to coil (602). Control module (604) may receive such data viacoil (602) and react to it in various ways. For instance, control module(604) may drive charge indicator (606) to indicate the charge level ofbattery (666) (e.g., visually and/or audibly) in real time. In addition,control module (604) may adjust the charging current provided throughcoils (602, 662), based at least in part on the charge level of battery(666). Control modules (604, 664) may thus together provide a feedbackloop, allowing the charging profile of battery (666) (e.g., frequencyand/or other parameters) to be optimized in real time for whicheverbattery (666) is coupled with charging pad (600). Various suitable waysin which such communication between control modules (602, 664) andcorresponding real time adjustments may be provided will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

In some versions, the electronics in charging pad (600) may beencapsulated in a potting compound and/or be otherwise encapsulated.Such encapsulation may enable charging pad (600) to be sterilized usingsteam and/or other sterilization techniques that might otherwise not beavailable without damaging charging pad (600). Of course, charging pad(600) may be sterilized using a variety of other techniques, includingbut not limited to electron beam sterilization.

In some settings, it may be desirable to maximize the interface area ofan inductive charging pad to maximize the amount of current that may betransferred to a battery pack or other type of power source. To thatend, FIG. 15 shows an exemplary charging pad (670) that includes a powercord (672) and a relatively large primary coil (674). Primary coil (674)has a diameter spanning across almost the entire length and width ofcharging pad (670). Primary coil (674) may inductively couple with asimilarly sized secondary coil in a medical device (not shown) toprovide optimized inductive charging to a battery within the medicaldevice. FIG. 16 shows an exemplary charging pad (680) that includes apower cord (682) and a plurality of smaller primary coils (684). Whileprimary coils (684) are relatively small in this example, they areprovided in an array that spans across almost the entire length andwidth of charging pad (690). Primary coils (684) may inductively couplewith similarly sized and arranged secondary coils in a medical device(not shown) to provide optimized inductive charging to a battery orbatteries within the medical device. It should also be understood thatcharging pad (690) may accommodate various different medical deviceshaving inductive charging interfaces of various sizes (e.g., such thatnot all primary coils (684) are necessarily used every time). Stillother suitable components, features, configurations, and operabilitiesof charging pad (600, 670, 680) and medical device (650) will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. It should also be understood that any charging pad or chargingdevice referred herein may include the communication capabilitiesdiscussed above with respect to charging pad (600), if desired.

B. Exemplary Charging Pad on Stand with Sterile Drape

As noted above, an inductive charging pad may be sterilized using steam,electron beam sterilization, and/or using other sterilizationtechniques. It should also be understood, however, that an inductivecharging pad may still be used, even in an operating room, without thecharging pad necessarily being sterilized, and without the non-sterilecharging pad compromising the sterility of the medical device that itcharges. For instance, as shown in FIG. 17, an inductive charging pad(800) may be placed on a mayo stand (802) (or elsewhere) in an operatingroom, and a sterile drape (804) may be placed over charging pad (800) toact as a sterile barrier. Thus, during an operation, and with chargingpad (800) plugged into a conventional wall outlet (806) via a cable(808), sterile battery packs (not shown) that are capable of beinginductively charged may simply be placed directly on sterile drape (804)over charging pad (800). For instance, such battery packs may haveintegral inductive charging coils that establish communication with oneor more complementary coils in charging pad (800). Such battery packsmay thus be charged by charging pad (800) through sterile drape (804),and sterile drape (804) may help maintain the sterility of the batterypacks by preventing contamination from non-sterile charging pad (800).Sterile drape (804) may comprise any suitable material and construction,including but not limited to a plastic film, a suitable fabric, etc.

C. Exemplary Charging Peg on Stand with Sterile Drape

FIGS. 18-19 depict another exemplary use of a sterile drape andinductive charging device. In particular, FIGS. 18-19 show an inductivecharging device (900) on a mayo stand (930), with a sterile drape (940)laid over inductive charging device (900). Inductive charging device(900) of this example includes a cable (902) that is configured to pluginto a conventional wall outlet (904), a base portion (906), an uprightpeg portion (908), and a primary coil (910). Primary coil (910) is shownin FIG. 19 as being located within upright peg portion (908), though itshould be understood that primary coil (910) may be located elsewhere.For instance, in some other versions, primary coil (910) is located inbase portion (906) (e.g., coaxial with upright peg portion (908), etc.).

Charging device (900) of this example is configured for use with amedical device having a handpiece (950) as shown in FIG. 19. Inparticular, handpiece (950) includes a secondary coil (952), which is incommunication with an integral power source (954) in handpiece (950).The bottom of handpiece (950) defines a recess (956) that is configuredto receive upright peg portion (908) of charging device (900). Uprightpeg portion (908) and recess (956) thus cooperate to assist in properlypositioning coils (910, 952) relative to each other. Upright peg portion(908) also provides some degree of structural support to handpiece (950)(e.g., reducing the likelihood of handpiece (950) tipping over, etc.).When coils (910, 952) are properly positioned within sufficientproximity of each other, coils (910, 952) inductively couple, forming atransformer and charging power source (954). Sterile drape (940)conforms to the interface between handpiece (950) and charging device(900), this maintaining the sterile barrier between these componentswhile also permitting inductive charging to occur therethrough.

As with charging pad (800), charging device (950) may be used in anoperating room without being sterile and without compromising thesterility of handpiece (950) or other items in the operating room. Inother words, even if charging device (900) is non-sterile, power source(954) may be charged by charging device (900) through sterile drape(940), and sterile drape (940) may help maintain the sterility ofhandpiece (950) by preventing contamination from non-sterile chargingdevice (900). The medical device having handpiece (950) may beconstructed and operable in accordance with medical device (10, 100)and/or in accordance with at least some of the teachings of any of thereferences cited herein. Various other types of devices that may includehandpiece (950) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein. Similarly, various other suitable formsthat charging device (900) may take will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

VI. Exemplary Medical Device Powered by Supercapacitor

While several of the examples described above have included batteries asa primary integral source of power in a medical device, it should beunderstood that other types of components may provide a primary integralsource of power in a medical device. For instance, FIG. 20 shows amedical device (1000) having an integral power source (1010) thatcomprises one or more supercapacitors, also known as electricdouble-layer capacitors (EDLCs). Medical device may otherwise beconstructed and operable in accordance with medical device (10, 100)and/or in accordance with at least some of the teachings of any of thereferences cited herein. It should be understood that one or moresupercapacitors of power source (1010) may provide sufficient power toperform one or more operational acts with medical device (1000) (e.g.,one or more transections with an end effector of medical device (1000),etc.). However, the power provided by supercapacitors of power source(1010) may be more in the form of short bursts as compared to the powerdelivery that might be expected from conventional batteries. Ittherefore might be warranted in some instances to provide relativelyimmediate recharging of power source (1010).

FIG. 20 also shows a charging pad (1020) draped directly over the torsoof a patient (1030). Charging pad (1020) includes a power cable (1022)that is configured to plug into a conventional wall outlet or piece ofcapital equipment, etc. Charging pad (1020) is further configured tocharge power source (1010) through inductive coupling or otherwise. Dueto the nature of supercapacitors, the charging of power source (1010)may be much faster than the charge time that might otherwise be expectedwith conventional rechargeable batteries. Thus, in the present example,a surgeon may repeatedly place medical device (1000) on or at leastdirectly over charging pad (1020) as many times as needed to keep powersource (1010) sufficiently charged during a medical procedure. Chargingpad (1020) may be sterilized before use; or may have a sterile drapeplaced over it (and under it) to avoid contaminating medical device(1000) (and patient (1030)). It should also be understood that chargingpad (1020) may be placed anywhere, and need not necessarily be drapedover patient (1030). It should also be understood that medical device(1000) may include a magnet or other feature that helps keep medicaldevice (1000) upright (e.g., to avoid tipping over, etc.) when medicaldevice (1000) is plaled on charging pad (1020). Various other suitableways in which supercapacitors may be incorporated into a medical devicewill be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. It should also be understood that, in any examplementioned herein that includes one or more batteries, such batteries maybe replaced or supplemented with a capacitor, supercapacitor, and/orother type of power source.

VII. Conclusion

It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or otherdisclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to beincorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to theextent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existingdefinitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in thisdisclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure asexplicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting materialincorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, thatis said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts withexisting definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forthherein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arisesbetween that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

Embodiments of the present invention have application in conventionalendoscopic and open surgical instrumentation as well as application inrobotic-assisted surgery.

Embodiments of the devices disclosed herein can be designed to bedisposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be usedmultiple times. Embodiments may, in either or both cases, bereconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning mayinclude any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device,followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequentreassembly. In particular, embodiments of the device may bedisassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of thedevice may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Uponcleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, embodiments of thedevice may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioningfacility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgicalprocedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioningof a device may utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly,cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and theresulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the presentapplication.

By way of example only, embodiments described herein may be processedbefore surgery. First, a new or used instrument may be obtained and ifnecessary cleaned. The instrument may then be sterilized. In onesterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealedcontainer, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrumentmay then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate thecontainer, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons.The radiation may kill bacteria on the instrument and in the container.The sterilized instrument may then be stored in the sterile container.The sealed container may keep the instrument sterile until it is openedin a medical facility. A device may also be sterilized using any othertechnique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gammaradiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention,further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may beaccomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill inthe art without departing from the scope of the present invention.Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and otherswill be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, theexamples, embodiments, geometrics, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps,and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required.Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered interms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to thedetails of structure and operation shown and described in thespecification and drawings.

1. A medical system, comprising: (a) a medical device, the medicaldevice comprising: (i) an integral power source, and (ii) an activeelement in communication with the integral power source, wherein theactive element is operable to perform an operation on tissue in apatient; (b) a charging device, the charging device being operable tocommunicate with the integral power source of the medical device tothereby charge the integral power source of the charging device; and (c)a sterile barrier interposed between the medical device and the chargingdevice.
 2. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the active elementcomprises an ultrasonic blade or an RF electrode.
 3. The medical systemof claim 1, wherein the integral power source comprises asupercapacitor.
 4. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the medicaldevice comprises one or more contacts, wherein the charging devicecomprises one or more contacts, wherein the sterile barrier isconfigured to permit the one or more contacts of the charging device toestablish contact with the one or more contacts of the medical devicewithout compromising sterility of exterior portions of the medicaldevice.
 5. The medical system of claim 4, wherein the one or morecontacts of the charging device comprise spike contacts protrudingthrough the sterile barrier.
 6. The medical system of claim 1, whereinthe charging device comprises a base and a collar, wherein the collar isconfigured to fit around a portion of the medical device to providestructural support to the medical device.
 7. The medical system of claim6, wherein the sterile barrier is interposed between the collar and thebase.
 8. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the sterile barriercomprises a flexible drape.
 9. The medical system of claim 1, whereinthe charging device comprises a primary coil, wherein the medical devicefurther comprises a secondary coil in communication with the integralpower source, wherein the coils are configured to establish an inductivecoupling to charge the integral power source.
 10. The medical system ofclaim 9, wherein the medical device further includes a control module incommunication with the secondary coil, wherein the charging devicefurther comprises a control module in communication with the primarycoil, wherein the control modules are configured to provide datacommunication along a waveform communicated between the primary coil andthe secondary coil.
 11. The medical system of claim 10, wherein thewaveform further communicates power from the primary coil to thesecondary coil, such that the data communication is superimposed on thepower communication.
 12. The medical system of claim 9, wherein thecharging device comprises a charging pad.
 13. The medical system ofclaim 9, wherein the charging device further comprises a peg featurereceived by a recess formed in the medical device, such that the pegfeature is configured to provide structural support to the medicaldevice.
 14. The medical system of claim 13, wherein the primary coil islocated in the peg feature.
 15. The medical system of claim 1, whereinthe charging device comprises a plurality of primary coils, each primarycoil being configured to wirelessly communicate power through inductivecoupling with a respective secondary coil, wherein the medical devicefurther comprises at least one secondary coil in communication with theintegral power source, wherein the at least one secondary coil isconfigured to communicate with at least one of the plurality of primarycoils to thereby establish an inductive coupling to charge the integralpower source.
 16. A medical system, comprising: (a) a medical device,the medical device comprising: (i) a housing, (ii) an integral powersource within the housing, (iii) an active element in communication withthe integral power source, wherein the active element is operable toperform an operation on tissue in a patient, and (iv) one or morecharging features extending from the housing, wherein the one or morecharging features are removable from the housing; and (b) a chargingdevice, the charging device being operable to communicate with theintegral power source of the medical device via the one or more chargingfeatures to thereby charge the integral power source of the chargingdevice, wherein the charging device further comprises one or moreretention features configured to retain the one or more chargingfeatures of the medical device and thereby remove the one or morecharging features from the medical device.
 17. The system of claim 16,wherein the one or more charging features comprise a pair of prongsextending from the housing, wherein the one or more retention featuresare conductive and are thereby configured to communicate charging powerto the prongs through contact with the prongs.
 18. A system, the systemcomprising: (a) a medical device, wherein the medical device comprises:(i) a handpiece, (ii) an integral power source located within thehandpiece, (iii) an active element in communication with the integralpower source, wherein the active element is operable to perform anoperation on tissue in a patient, and (iv) an external coupling incommunication with the integral power source, wherein the externalcoupling includes a magnet; and (b) a wire including an externalcoupling, wherein the external coupling of the wire includes a magnet,wherein the external coupling of the wire is configured to physicallycouple with the external coupling of the medical device throughattraction between the magnets, wherein the wire is configured to chargethe integral power source when the external coupling of the wire iscoupled with the external coupling of the medical device.
 19. The systemof claim 18, wherein the handpiece includes a slot feature configured toselectively receive and eject the integral power source.
 20. The systemof claim 18, further comprising a sterile package and a reclamationcontainer, wherein the medical device, the wire, and the reclamationcontainer are all provided within the sterile package as a kit.